The Venezuelan Displacement Crisis: Ecuador’s Response in Focus

The Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) and Refugees International (RI) invite you to the following event:

The Venezuelan Displacement Crisis: Ecuador’s Response in Focus

Since 2015, millions have fled the breakdown in security and social order in Venezuela, creating the second-largest displacement crisis in the world. Today, there about 4 million Venezuelan refugees and migrants around the globe. Just over a quarter of a million have settled in Ecuador and millions more have passed through the country en route to other destinations.

The number of Venezuelans arriving and settling in Ecuador demands a rigorous response. But Ecuador’s capacity is being strained and swings in the government’s policies have been cause for alarm. New restrictions have blocked Venezuelans’ ability to enter the country regularly and integrate into society; limited resources keep many from accessing the rights and services they are due by law; specialized support for the most vulnerable groups has been inadequate; and xenophobia and discrimination exacerbate the situation.

Join WOLA and Refugees International in a discussion of Ecuador’s response to the influx of Venezuelan refugees and migrants at its borders. What limitations hinder the response and its implementation? How are these dynamics affecting Venezuelans? How can the international community provide support? Refugees International will present findings and recommendations from itsrecent report, drawing on a March 2019 field mission to Ecuador as we explore these and other questions.